Creamy Paprika Steak Shells
There’s nothing quite like a comforting pasta dinner that tastes like a hug in a bowl — and these Creamy Paprika Steak Shells do just that. Tender pasta shells soak up a silky, smoky sauce made with juicy strips of seared steak, a touch of paprika, and a swirl of cream. It’s the kind of cozy, one-pan meal that makes a weeknight feel special without much fuss.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces medium pasta shells
- 1 pound sirloin or flank steak, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika (or sweet paprika for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup beef stock or broth
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the pasta.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta shells until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sear the steak.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak strips generously with salt, pepper, and half of the smoked paprika. Add to the skillet and cook for about 3–4 minutes, just until browned on the edges. Remove and set aside.
Build the flavor base.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat slightly and add the onion. Sauté until it begins to soften, then stir in the garlic and remaining paprika. Cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
Make the sauce.
Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture simmer gently for 3–4 minutes. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
Combine everything.
Return the steak to the pan, coating it in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta shells and toss gently until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
Serve and enjoy.
Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm — right from the skillet for that cozy, homemade feel.
